O’Sullivan’s songwriting knack has outlived and transcended fashion, global million-sellers and critical acclaim, in a career that has spanned 55 years and Top 10 singles and no. 1’s around the world, including the classic ‘Alone Again (Naturally)’ which topped the US charts for six weeks and earned him three Grammy nominations. British recognition soon followed with the songs ‘Clair’ and ‘Get Down’ reaching the summit of the UK singles charts and his LP “Back to Front” topping the album charts. In the same year, at the 18th. Ivor Novello awards, Gilbert was named ‘Song Writer of the Year’ - to date he has won three Ivor Novello awards and in recent times, performed alongside other artists at BBC Proms in the Park; made four appearances at Glastonbury including the main stage and toured extensively throughout the UK, Ireland, Europe, Japan and America. His legacy and influence has been acknowledged by his diverse range of artists, including Paul Weller, Nina Simone, Neil Diamond, Pet Shops Boys and Elton John, James Murphy (LCD Soundsystem), Paul Heaton, Ron Sexsmith, Mick Hucknall, Boy George, The Lemon Twigs, Cmat, Michael Bublé and Diana Krall. In early 2024, Gilbert received ‘Freedom of Waterford City’ in Ireland, the place of his birth.
